SYOSSET - The New York Islanders are heading west on a three-game roadtrip and two of their players might not come back as the league's trade deadline approaches.

Both Andrew MacDonald and Thomas Vanek are being mentioned in trade rumors. MacDonald, a defenseman, has played with the Islanders his entire career and is one of the team's assistant captains. He says he's trying not to let any trade rumors affect him or his playing.

Vanek has only been with the team a few months, having been acquired in a trade from the Buffalo Sabres for forward Matt Moulson. Vanek is a free agent at the end of the season and says he would have considered signing a deal with the Islanders if they had a better winning record.